About the Program

Small business plays a very important role in our local economy. In Airdrie, like other Canadian cities, 99% of businesses are small businesses.

But, the reality is, running a business can be tough. Studies show only 35% of new businesses survive their first five years.

That’s where SMARTstart comes in.

It’s proven. Business owners with education in entrepreneurship, or previous entrepreneur experience, have an 80–90% chance of success with a new business.

SMARTstart was designed by a group of local partners and is delivered right here in Airdrie. Its purpose is to provide real-world business skills and access to tailor-made advice to increase the chance of new businesses surviving those first crucial years.

Through online learning, in-person seminars and mentorship, SMARTstart give entrepreneurs with an idea and new business owners the tools to build a plan that will help set their business up for success.